Crockpot Beefy Taco Pasta

This recipe uses your provided ingredients to create a hearty and flavorful taco pasta dish perfect for a busy weeknight. The cooking time on high will be approximately 3-4 hours, but you may need to adjust based on your crockpot and desired pasta consistency.

Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 3-4 hours on high

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean)
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 cup medium shell pasta
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans beef broth
• 1/2 cup water (or more, as needed)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
• Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. This step is optional, but it helps to develop a richer flavor.

2. Combine ingredients: Add the browned ground beef (or un-browned if skipping step 1), onion powder, garlic powder, and taco seasoning to your slow cooker. Stir to combine.

3. Add liquids and pasta: Add the tomato paste, beef broth, and water to the slow cooker. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. Add the shell pasta.

4. Cook: Cook on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has reduced to a slightly saucy consistency. Check the pasta for doneness around the 2.5-hour mark; you may need to add a little more water if the sauce is too thick before the pasta is fully cooked.

5. Stir and serve: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce. Serve immediately, topped with your favorite taco toppings such as sour cream, salsa, avocado, or chopped cilantro.

Notes:

• For a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water or beef broth. For a thinner sauce, add more.
• You can adjust the amount of taco seasoning to your preference.
• Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or onions, to the slow cooker along with the beef.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your delicious and easy Crockpot Beefy Taco Pasta!